• ROGER D. BELTRAN
Last week, people all over the world marked Holy Week – a meaningful time for Christians to reflect, remember, and honor their faith. One of the most powerful parts of the week came through religious and theatrical performances, which brought to life the emotional story of Jesus Christ’s journey to the cross.
In Barangay Dos Hermanas, Talisay City, Negros Occidental, one such performance left a lasting impression on its audience. The immersive production, “Kasakit ni Hesus, Kasakit sang Katawhan sang Dios (The Suffering of Jesus, Suffering of God’s People)”, unfolded in two acts – one staged in the lush green grounds of Sto. Niño Agho in the morning, and the other at the façade of San Pedro Bautista Parish Church in the evening. The play traced the events from the Last Supper to the Crucifixion, weaving together scenes of betrayal, sacrifice, and redemption.
The production was brought to life by Theatrum Sancti Petri, the youth theater ministry of San Pedro Bautista Parish, under the guidance of parish priest Rev. Fr. Rommel Falc “Theloi” Palivino. Twenty-seven young actors, all members of the parish community, gave powerful performances shaped by days of preparation and a deep sense of devotion. Supported by the Parish Youth Ministry and its Social Communications team (Soccom), the ensemble transformed familiar biblical passages into vivid, emotionally charged moments onstage.
At the heart of the production was Kristofer Jules Macawili, who delivered a moving portrayal of Jesus Christ. He was joined by a talented cast that included Edmarie Rustico as Mary, the Mother of Jesus; Jerel Nouie Gepielago, Judas Iscariot; Jan Rendell Bayon-on, Pontius Pilate; Reshan James Maglasang, Simon of Cyrene; and Klouie Latorgo as Veronica.
Other cast members took on multiple roles, including apostles, soldiers, religious leaders, and townspeople, each contributing to the powerful storytelling that gripped the crowd.
They are Kleven John Gelera as Caiaphas, apostle and the thief; Cassey John Abenir, Annas and soldier; Martin Napial, priest; Jennimer Cabalfin, priest, apostle and soldier; Angelo Jose Gelera, apostle, priest and soldier; Nicole Salazar, woman from Cana; Honey Guinanao, Micaela Aspera, Jean Castociano and Maria Ysabelle Iyana Abenir, women of Jerusalem and crowd members;
Yoko Alexis Vicera, John the Beloved and Nicodemus; Cris Daniel Mariano, Joseph of Arimathea; Justin Mitch Salazar, apostle, soldier, Barabbas and the thief; Jhed Vicera, Prince Christian Mojado, Zidane Angelo Gordo, John Daniel Moya, Jay Nicolasora and Izrhael Matthew Lamig, who played apostles and soldiers; as well as Keith David Peterson, water boy of Pilate; and Keane Dominic Abenir as member of the crowd.
Behind the scenes, the production team worked with tireless dedication. Joanna Canincia, Jhustine Seron, Roger Beltran, and Lloyd Tayson led the scriptwriting and stage direction with care and precision. Marielle Vhaile Magbanua and John Lester Tecson provided narration and technical support, ensuring the performance resonated both visually and emotionally.
For the spectators who gathered to witness it, “Kasakit ni Hesus” was far more than a play – it was a spiritual experience. Through stirring performances and heartfelt dedication, the production offered a profound reminder of Christ’s suffering and the enduring power of faith in the face of adversity.*
